Ideas for Great Fireplaces

Fuel Source

• Before you look at designs, decide what your fuel source will be. Natural gas is clean and convenient, but doesn't have the smell and feel of natural wood. Burning wood is messier, and means more maintenance of the fireplace and chimney to prevent creosote build up. The costs of both must also be factored into the decision, and will vary depending on the availability of either fuel source.

New Fireplace

• If you're adding a fireplace to a new home, then the sky's the limit in terms of designs. Depending on the style of your home, there are an endless variety of options to choose from, including slate, tile, brick, stone and limestone. A colonial home, for example, may be best suited with a brick fireplace that mirrors its more traditional feel. A log cabin is the perfect setting for a stone fireplace, adding heft and warmth to the space. A newer home, with a modern design, can easily handle a slate or tile fireplace, lending an elegant and sleek appearance.

Remodeled Fireplace

• When remodeling an old fireplace, paint is not your only option. There are a multitude of resources from which to draw ideas on how to remodel your fireplace. (See References) For example, aside from painting, it is possible to cover the old fireplace with sheets of slate or other materials that are designed to be glued on. It is also easy to drywall over part or all of an old fireplace to change the look completely. Modifying the hearth can also be done, changing the feel by adding slate, marble or stone.

The Mantel

• Don't forget the mantel when adding a new fireplace or remodeling an old one. Mantels add a great deal to the look and feel of a fireplace. They can lend it weight or lighten a heavy-looking fireplace. They can be made out of many different materials and come in many different designs. Mantels can tie into bookcases that surround the fireplace for a cozy reading area. Decorating mantels by adding a few select items, like a large painting, a few books, flowers or a large mirror, adds a great deal to the feel of the fireplace. Experiment with different mantel designs and arrangements to find one that best suits the design of the home.